The 2019 removal of Article 370 has been widely criticised for eroding the constitutional guarantees that protected Jammu and Kashmir's distinct identity and political autonomy. By imposing a uniform legal regime, the central government dismissed the region's historic pact, which had allowed local lawmakers to control land ownership, employment and cultural preservation. Critics argue that this abrupt change triggered a wave of disenfranchisement, fueling protests such as those staged by the National Conference and PDP on the seventh anniversary.
Human‑rights groups contend that the revocation was accompanied by a prolonged communications blackout, mass arrests of political leaders and restrictions on civil liberties, creating an environment of fear that stifles legitimate dissent. Economically, the promised surge in investment has been uneven; many private firms remain hesitant due to lingering security concerns and the lack of clear land‑use policies that were previously governed by the state.
The protests highlight that local parties still command significant support, especially in the Kashmir Valley, where residents feel their cultural and linguistic rights are being diluted. Analysts warn that ignoring these grievances could deepen alienation, potentially reigniting unrest and hampering long‑term stability.
To address the fallout, observers call for a negotiated settlement that restores certain legislative powers to a re‑established state assembly, ensures transparent land reforms, and guarantees safeguards for civil freedoms, thereby balancing national integration with regional autonomy.